Dame Prue Leith, the celebrated culinary icon and television personality, recently shared a surprisingly candid account of her experience with a popular weight-loss drug. Despite her prominent role judging the nation’s baking prowess, she found the medication profoundly unsettling.
She experimented with the drug for two months, hoping for a positive change, but the results were far from what she anticipated. Instead of shedding pounds, Prue experienced a complete loss of appetite, yet her weight remained stubbornly unchanged.
The physical toll was significant. Prue described feeling utterly exhausted and “hated” the experience. Her husband, John Playfair, noticed a difference, commenting that she looked “thinner,” a remark Prue wryly interpreted as appearing “old and scraggy round the face.”
Beyond the unpleasant side effects, Prue was also struck by the drug’s cost, deeming it “expensive.” She promptly discontinued use, declaring it “terrible” for her overall well-being. In stark contrast, her husband experienced a two-stone weight loss while on the same medication.
However, the drug’s impact on John extended beyond his waistline. Prue noted a change in his habits, observing that he now rarely drinks alcohol—a development she lamented, given her own fondness for a nightly glass or two of wine.
Prue and John’s story began in 2011, when they met through a mutual friend. Their connection blossomed, and they married five years later, with Prue at 76 and John at 70. Their relationship remains a cherished priority.
Recently, Prue has spoken openly about the preciousness of time. At 85, she acknowledges she “hasn’t got much longer” and is determined to maximize every moment with her husband, focusing on shared experiences and creating lasting memories.
This desire to prioritize life beyond the screen has led to adjustments in her professional commitments. She’s scaled back her involvement with the celebrity version of *The Great British Bake Off*, eager to pursue other passions and explore new horizons.
Prue explained her decision, stating simply that she’s “getting a bit old” and has a growing list of places she wants to visit and things she wants to do. It’s a testament to a life lived fully, and a poignant reminder to savor every moment.
In September, Prue even graced the catwalk, showcasing her enduring style and zest for life. She continues to embrace new challenges and experiences, proving that age is truly just a number.
